Doctor Who: 10 Most Underrated Tenth Doctor Episodes

After the popularity of Rose Tyler, Freema Agyeman had a lot of pressure to make the character of Martha Jones a success. Thankfully, in ‘Smith and Jones’ the Doctor’s new companion became a distinctive and likable presence almost at once.

One of the strengths of ‘Smith and Jones’ is how much information is given about the Doctor’s new companion. In just forty-five minutes the episode offers a nuanced image of Martha that encompasses everything from her aspirations to her dysfunctional family.

‘Smith and Jones’ also interweaves an entertaining sci-fi story in the midst of introducing Martha. The Judoon’s hunt for the Plasmavore makes for a great cat-and-mouse game which becomes greater still when the Doctor and Martha get caught up in the midst of it.

Possibly due to the popularity of Rose and Donna, Martha’s entry point into the show doesn’t get enough praise. But thanks to Davies’ writing and the performances from the two leads, ‘Smith and Jones’ is a wonderful opener for Tennant’s second series.